Inmates from Uzbekistan and Russia Escape Russian Penal Colony
Six inmates, including four reportedly from Uzbekistan, have escaped from a penal colony in Russia’s Lipetsk region, according to regional governor Igor Artamonov. The escape occurred from Penal Colony No. 2, prompting a full-scale search operation involving several Russian law enforcement agencies, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Federal Security Service (FSB), and the National Guard.
Governor Artamonov confirmed in a Telegram post that all available emergency services had been mobilized to locate the escapees. Initial investigations by the Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN) revealed an underground tunnel within the prison grounds. Upon counting the inmates, officials discovered six were missing.
While FSIN’s website did not specify the prisoners’ names, the service confirmed they were all from Central Asia. Governor Artamonov later announced that two of the fugitives had been apprehended in the neighboring Tambov region, and the search continues for the remaining four inmates.
A criminal investigation has been launched against prison officials, who are accused of negligence leading to the inmates’ escape. The regional authorities are working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safe apprehension of the remaining escapees.
The escape of these inmates highlights the challenges faced by Russian authorities in maintaining security within penal facilities. As the search for the remaining fugitives continues, the public is urged to report any information that may help in locating them. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.